Abdominal swelling, commonly known as stomach fullness, is a condition in which the stomach becomes larger than usual. MedlinePlus states that abdominal swelling is common and typically results from eating too much. Sometimes, this swelling can be due to an underlying medical problem involving the digestive tract or the female reproductive system. Fortunately, the causes of abdominal swelling can be managed.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a medical condition affecting the lower part of the digestive tract called the colon. Specific symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include abdominal swelling, bloating, gas (flatulence), mucus in the stools, and constipation or diarrhea.
The specific cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not known. However, milk, alcohol, stress, hormonal changes and illnesses such as infectious diarrhea can lead to irritable bowel syndrome.
Treatment involves taking anti-diarrheal medications to bulk up the stool and anticholinergic agents or antibiotics and antidepressants to reduce symptoms. Counseling can also be used to identify and understand irritable bowel triggers. Medications such as alosetron and lubiprostone are specific medications that can manage irritable bowel syndrome.
Uterine Fibroids
MedlinePlus states that uterine fibroids refer to growths that occur in the uterus. Specific symptoms of uterine fibroids include stomach fullness, swelling, constipation and pain during sexual intercourse. Uterine fibroids also cause vaginal bleeding between periods, pressure in the lower part of the stomach, frequent urination and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Uterine fibroids cause is unknown but it may be linked to estrogen as the growth of the fibroid depends on this hormone.
Treatment for uterine fibroids involves taking birth control pills or having a doctor insert an intrauterine device to control menstrual bleeding. Medications such as naprosyn can help reduce pain and iron supplements can treat the anemia that develops as a result of excessive blood loss. Also, medications such as Depo Leuprolide injections can actually help shrink the uterine fibroids. Sometimes, surgery is necessary to remove the fibroid, cut off its blood supply or remove the uterus entirely.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance refers to a condition in which the body cannot break down lactase, an enzyme needed to break down lactose, a substance found in dairy products, according to the Mayo Clinic. Lactose intolerance symptoms include bloating, abdominal swelling, diarrhea, gas, nausea and stomach cramps.
Lactose intolerance may be due to aging, medical illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease or individuals may be born with it.
Simply avoiding foods or beverages containing lactose can help manage lactose intolerance. Also, lactase enzyme supplements are also available to help break down lactose. Taking a calcium supplement or eating yogurt rich in probiotics can also manage lactose intolerance. Probiotics are organisms typically found in the digestive tract that help with digestion.
